Australia’s

CORAL COASTHoliday Planner 2018

Visitors heading north of Perth on the Brand Highway and beyond will delight in viewing some of the state’s most vibrant wildflowers as they drive through the inland farming towns of Dandaragan, Badgingarra, Eneabba, Coorow, Three Springs, Carnamah, Mingenew and Mullewa during late winter and spring. Learn about the region’s interesting heritage and early settlers by strolling along walking trails that showcase the many historic buildings in these towns.

The breathtaking hinterland of Coalseam Conservation Park, located between Mingenew and Mullewa, is a premier location for everlasting wildflower carpets. Accessible by all vehicles, the park is among the most botanically diverse bush areas in WA. After good winter rains the acacia shrubland with its sparse understorey comes alive with carpets of everlasting wildflowers.

visit WILDFLOWER country

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Late June – October

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DANDARAGANDistance from Perth: 168km

The Dandaragan area boasts lush pastures and abundant crops produced from fertile farming land. It is home to award-winning Dandaragan organic beef, cold-pressed olive oil as well as citrus and stone fruit orchards. It also has a beautiful wildflower viewing area with most species flowering in late winter and spring.

St Anne’s ChurchThis charming Anglican Church, constructed between 1885 and 1887 has an interesting gothic arch for its entry and is made from local soap stone from Kayanaba, a nearby property.

Wolba Wolba (Aggie’s Cottage)Situated on the Badgingarra Road, seven kilometres from Dandaragan, this brick and stone cottage was erected in 1871 and is still used today by local craft and historical groups. There’s a fresh water lake 50 metres away, which is home to different species of water birds.

The Dandaragan WayThe Dandaragan Way is a scenic drive from Regan’s Ford through Dandaragan to Badgingarra, offering views of creeks, rolling hills, historic buildings, marri trees and flocks of white corellas and cockatoos.

Dandaragan and Badgingarra Visitor Information

Dandaragan Community Resource CentreDandaragan Rd, Dandaragan WA 6516

Tel: +61 8 9651 4071Website: www.dandaragan.wa.gov.au

1 Take in the wildflowers and learn the local history while driving the newly opened ‘Midlands Route’ from Coorow to Mullewa.

2 Local artists install sculptures in the wildflowers, enjoy the self-drive 'ArtDrive' from 29 July to 29 October 2018, access out of Geraldton.

3 Spot the rare wreath leschenaultia flower by gravel roadsides at Pindar and Mingenew.

4 Admire carpets of everlastings in the Coalseam Conservation Park and camp amongst the flowers.

5 Stroll along the Vern Westbrook Walk in Badgingarra.

6 Have a picnic amongst wildflowers in Alexander Morrison or Tathra National Parks.

7 Learn about the region’s pioneering history at the Carnamah Historical Museum.

8 Spend a night under the stars at Lake Indoon or spot migratory birds at the Yarra Yarra Salt Lake.

9 Stroll through wildflowers along the Heritage Walk in Three Springs.

10 Marvel at the work of Monsignor Hawes on the Mullewa Heritage Trail stretching east from Geraldton.

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BADGINGARRADistance from Perth: 205km

The town of Badgingarra is situated north of Dandaragan along the Brand Highway at the edge of the Badgingarra National Park. Badgingarra is renowned for its incredibly diverse bushland that becomes ablaze with the brilliant colours of wildflowers during late winter and spring – it is referred to internationally as a ‘biodiversity hotspot’.

Badgingarra Nature TrailThe 3.5km Badgingarra Nature Trail departs from and returns to the Badgingarra Roadhouse on the Brand Highway and can be completed in two hours. Exploding with colour in spring, Badgingarra National Park is renowned for its flora diversity.

FUN FACT: ‘Kwongan’ is the Nyoongar (Aboriginal) name for this low, dense heath vegetation

Meteorite WalkApproximately 3.5km off Brand Highway on North West Road, between the original Badgingarra town site and the town centre, is a 1.5km heritage and wildflower walk. An area of unique biodiversity, learn about the Yallalie Meteorite Impact Zone that occurred in the area approximately 70 million years ago.

The Black Kangaroo Paw Iain Wilson Nature Trail is named in memory of the local pioneer farmer. The 1.5km trail within the protected Badgingarra National Park features many species of wildflowers including Badgingarra’s emblem, the black kangaroo paw. It is also home to numerous reptiles, emus, kangaroos and a variety of bird life including bustards and wedge-tailed eagles.

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ENEABBADistance from Perth: 285km

The Eneabba sandplain is a world renowned biodiversity hotspot, supporting native hard scrub and heathland. The Eneabba region is extremely diverse and includes many species, a large percentage of which are endemic to the area.

Walk the Wildflowers of Western Flora Western Flora Tourist Park is the ideal place to base yourself when visiting for the wildflowers. It has a great number of individual species growing natively on the property ready for you to explore via the walking trails. With lots of space for the kids to play and with kangaroos as neighbours, it’s the perfect bush setting to explore wildflowers.

Tathra National ParkThe Tathra National Park is located north east of Eneabba on the Carnamah-Eneabba Road and is most striking during the wildflower season. During spring the park is full of bush flowers and kangaroo paw.

FUN FACT: ‘Tathra’ is the Aboriginal word for beautiful place.

Beekeepers ReserveLocated about 20km north of Eneabba, to the west of the Brand Highway, Beekeepers Reserve is a small area with a great variety of wildflowers in bloom during the season.

Spend a night under the stars at Lake IndoonLake Indoon is located along the Coolimba-Eneabba Road and is the perfect spot to pull up after a day of exploring. Enjoy a majestic day on the water then take advantage of the free campsite and spend a night under the stars at the Lake Indoon camping area. There are barbecue facilities, fresh water and ablutions available.

4WD at Lake LogueLake Logue is located west of Eneabba nearby to Lake Indoon. The 35km track around the lake is four-wheel drive only and provides a variety of conditions from knee-deep sand to mud flats to rocky ridges.

COOROWDistance from Perth: 300km

Coorow is a charming inland farming town whose first settlers raised sheep and horses. Remnants of the area’s farming history are still evident today, amid beautiful gardens and thriving wildflowers. The Coorow Hotel is a great place to stop for a refreshing drink and delicious meal while exploring the area.

Corrow Farm & the Bart Mailey Memorial TrailEnjoy the stunning array of everlastings, pink fairy orchids and other wildflowers along the Bart Mailey Memorial Walk Trail, stretching 1.2km. Not keen on walking? The Coorow Farm also includes a wildflower drive suitable for small cars to caravans.

Alexander Morrison National ParkLocated 50 kilometres west of Coorow, Alexander Morrison National Park boasts beautiful wildflower displays, particularly from August to October. The park consists of low scrub on undulating sandplain hills, interspersed with small streams across the landscape. Tall eucalypts housing heathland birds make for beautiful, shady picnic locations.

Coorow Visitor InformationCoorow Community Resource CentreCnr Main & Bristol Streets, Coorow WA 6515

Tel: +61 8 9952 1266Website: www.coorow.wa.gov.au

CARNAMAHDistance from Perth: 320km

The Carnamah area is one of the richest parts of the state for flowering plants, which explode into colour during the annual wildflower season from late July until October.

Stroll Macpherson Street Take a stroll along Macpherson Street and view the interpretative plaques to learn about the town’s history. Continue along the walk trail to Macpherson Homestead. The large stone homestead was built by the Macpherson family in the 1860s. Stop by at any time to see the exterior of the restored homestead and it’s ruinous buildings. The front verandah offers a picturesque view of the Carnamah town site and surrounding farmland.

Birds of CarnamahBird life in the coastal region consists of over 180 species, including the fairy wren and honeyeater. There are 17 species of seabird breeding on the offshore islands including the wedge-tailed shearwaters, white-faced petrels, pied Cormorants, bridled terns, rock parrots and roseate terns.

Carnamah Historical MuseumThe Carnamah Historical Museum is located in one of a number of historic stone buildings in Carnamah. It is open on Friday between 1.30pm and 5pm. Other historic buildings in Carnamah include the Post Office, St Andrews Church (designed by Monsignor John Hawes) and the Uniting Church.

Eneabba and Carnamah Visitor Information

Shire of Carnamah33-37 Macpherson Street, Carnamah WA 6517

Tel: +61 8 9951 7000Website: www.carnamah.wa.gov.au

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THREE SPRINGSDistance from Perth: 350km

Located 20 kilometres north west of Carnamah, Three Springs is a quaint country town boasting beautiful wildflowers and street art murals.

Wildflower Drive and Heritage WalkThe Robinson–Arrowsmith River Crossing is a scenic drive with wildflowers galore from late July to October. Visitors can gain an insight into the history of the Three Springs area and see some of the region’s magnificent wildflowers in season by taking a stroll along the Heritage Walk. There is an information board and barbecue facilities situated at the start of the trail.

Arrino GardenLocated 20kms north of Three Springs is the Arrino Garden full of native plants and bushtucker. Learn about their many uses for medicinal and discover the history of the townsite on a series of informative panels around the garden.

World’s largest Talc Mine Take in the 360 degree panoramic view at the Talc Mine Lookout, located 10kms east of Three Springs. Western Australia’s first talc mine, the mineral is mined by an open cut method and exported for use in paper, paint and ceramic industries. Three Springs Talc is also processed for cosmetics, agriculture and carving blocks. It is the largest Talc mine in the world with an annual production of 100000 tonnes.

Three Springs Visitor Information

Wildflower Country Visitor Centre (Open May to October)Railway Rd, Three Springs WA 6519

Tel: +61 8 9954 1590Website: www.threesprings.wa.gov.au

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MINGENEWDistance from Perth: 400km

Mingenew is the true heart and soul of the Wildflower Country. Close to Coalseam National Park, the town abounds with natural landscapes and most importantly, the locals are lovely! The sporting club, elevated high above town, serves up incredible views, cold drinks and great meals after a big day of wildflower hunting.

Coalseam Conservation ParkLocated between Mingenew and Mullewa, Coalseam Conservation Park is one of WA’s top wildflower hotspots. The park is named as such because this was where the first coal deposits in Western Australia were discovered in 1846. Many varieties of wildflowers are found in abundance here, with the everlasting carpets transforming during the wildflower season from the usually sparse understorey of wattle scrub. Visitors can discover marine fossils which have been embedded in the banks of the Irwin River. Magnificent views of the park are offered from the lookout. Picnic and toilet facilities are provided.

Camp amongst the flowersCamping for both caravans and tents is permitted at Coalseam’s Miners site with overflow camping at Breakaway for tents only. Be prepared for crowds during weekends in the wildflower season. Three-night stay limit applies from late July to October. Fees apply.

Murals and historyAfter admiring Mingenew’s murals, head to the Depot Hill Reserve, which was used as a firing range for practice during World War I and II. Today you can enjoy a relaxing picnic here with views of the Irwin River.

Enjoy the sunset on Mingenew Hill This stunning formation will amaze with its incredible expansive views across Mingenew’s beautiful breakaway country. From all vantage points, it’s akin to

overlooking a quilt of striking yellows and greens, with the hill itself abundant with flowers. ‘The Hill’ is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch or a champagne at sunset to finish the day.

Search for Wildflowers at Depot Hill Depot Hill is ‘just around the corner’ from Mingenew and in season is a spectacular destination for tourists and locals alike. Either side of a meandering pathway offers unparalleled access and viewing of rich, rare and colourful wildflower species. Grab some lunch from the Mingenew Bakery, take a blanket and a camera and head off to discover one of Western Australia’s true wildflower hotspots.

Mingenew Visitor InformationMingenew Visitor Centre (from July to October)Corner of Victoria Street and

Midlands Road, Mingenew WA 6522Tel: +61 8 9928 1102Website: www.mingenew.wa.gov.au

MULLEWADistance from Perth: 452km

Mullewa is the northern gateway to Wildflower Country. It has long been known for the stunning displays of everlastings and flowering shrubs along roadsides. Two of the five walk trails in Mullewa are dedicated to wildflowers, located on the outskirts of town.

Rare WreathsOf the many flowering species in the district, the wreath flower (Lechenaultia macrantha) is the star attraction of the annual “Outback Bloom” – Mullewa’s Wildflower Show. Held over four days in the middle of Spring Wildflower Season (usually late August / early September) at the Mullewa Town Hall. A dazzling array of wildflowers are on display to the public.

Monsignor Hawes Heritage TrailCelebrating the enormous contribution architect-priest John Hawes made to the region, the Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail showcases 15 buildings of his design and other sites significant to his life. Mullewa has one of the best examples of his work, the church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which took seven years to build, with Hawes its architect, stonemason and carpenter.

Everlasting Cultural TrailsWalk one of the eight Everlasting Cultural Trails to explore hinterland or historical townscapes. Wind your way through low rolling hills, across creek valleys and rocky ridges, or traverse the paths of early settlers. Visit the Mullewa Community Resource Centre for your free brochure and map of the trails.

Mullewa Wildflower ShowThe Mullewa Wildflower Show is held in late August/early September and brings the best of the bush to the town with all that is flowering in the region, including wreath flowers, daisies, hakeas, grevilleas, orchids, eremophilas, wattles and many other local species.

Mullewa Visitor InformationMullewa Community Resource Centre (open July to October)Cnr. Jose Street and Maitland Rd,

Mullewa WA 6630Tel: +61 8 9961 1500Email: admin@mullewacrc.net.auWebsite: www.visitgeraldton.com.au

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